Suzanne Huurman, Curacao and FIFA
20 June 2026

Suzanne Huurman is the only female head of medical staff at the men’s 2026 World Cup while working with Curacao. She is only the third female team doctor in tournament history and the only woman in Curacao’s travelling group.

Huurman said women must still prove themselves in elite football’s male-dominated environment, but quality eventually earns acceptance. Curacao’s match with Germany in Houston also featured the first all-female medical team at a men’s World Cup.

Iran, White House, Andrew Giuliani and FIFA
20 June 2026

The White House is discussing possible changes to Iran’s World Cup travel restrictions before their final group match in Seattle against Egypt. Iran currently must enter the United States one day before matches and leave on matchday under visa conditions.

Andrew Giuliani said officials are weighing competitive balance against national security, especially because Seattle is a longer flight from Iran’s Mexico base. Iran’s federation says the restrictions hurt preparation and plans to complain formally to FIFA.

Jeremy Doku, Belgium and France Pierron
20 June 2026

Jeremy Doku faced criticism on French television after saying he would leave Belgium’s World Cup camp to attend the birth of his first child if it clashed with the quarter-finals. Presenter France Pierron called the idea unacceptable.

Former boxer Brahim Asloum pushed back, arguing a child’s birth matters beyond football. Doku said Belgium’s federation understands player situations, while team-mate Brandon Mechele faces a similar family scenario later in the tournament with his own wife due soon.

Achraf Hakimi, Morocco, Scotland and Mohamed Ouahbi
20 June 2026

Achraf Hakimi was booed by Scotland fans during Morocco’s 1-0 World Cup win on the day a French appeals court ordered him to stand trial on rape charges. Hakimi denies wrongdoing and captained Morocco throughout the match.

Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi said the team remained behind Hakimi and praised his performance despite the hostile reaction. Hakimi posted that he had waited for trial since day one, while the plaintiff’s lawyer welcomed the court ruling.

FIFA, Alex Freeman and Chris Nowinski
20 June 2026

FIFA’s concussion protocols are under scrutiny after USA defender Alex Freeman returned to play following a head clash against Australia. Neuroscientist Chris Nowinski said on-field checks risk rushed assessments and leave players without optimal diagnosis.

Campaigners want temporary concussion substitutes so players can be examined off the pitch for longer without forcing a permanent change. Current FIFA competition rules allow only a permanent concussion substitute, which critics say discourages safer medical decisions.